Backpacks, socks, toothbrushes and bars of soaps will be distributed. Activities include haircuts for children, face-painting, bounce houses and balloon animals. Attendees can eat free hot dogs and Berardi’s french fries.

“That was the big draw last year,” said Pastor Jeff Watson, of The Foundation Church, referring to the fries.

Last year between 1,500 and 2,000 people attended Love Norwalk, which is in its fifth year. The event previously was called Norwalk United.

Love Norwalk involves the partnership of several local churches: The Chapel, Foundation, Norwalk Alliance, Oasis and First Baptist. Nicole Cooper, the assistant pastor at Oasis, said the event isn’t about the individual churches, but uniting through the body of Christ.

“It’s a back-to-school outreach,” added Watson, who expressed his appreciation to Norwalk Mayor Rob Duncan and city administrators for allowing the churches to use Main Street. “We are trying to love on the community.

“It’s going to be a blast. My daughters are looking forward to it,” Watson said. “The parents are going to love the free food.”